October 21, 1967 – April 23, 2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rodney (Rod) Dean after a tragic fall. He was surrounded by love with his wife of 34 years Kathi (nee Gardiner), his two sons Sam and Daniel, and his father Gordon.
Predeceased by his loving mother Lynda and survived by his father Gordon Dean. Rod will always be in the hearts of so many family and friends, including his “third” son, his furry boy Gus.
He will be missed by his Aunt Peggy (Paul), Uncle Jimmy, Aunt Sherry, and Aunt Sandra.
Very much-loved Son in law to Marilyn and her late husband Hank. He was a special brother-in-law to John (Sheila) and Bob (Brenda) and uncle to Turner (Melissa) and Tyrus (Rachel) and most recently Great Uncle to Arthur.
Rod had many cousins and some were more like brothers to him who deserve a special mention – Allen (Bucky), Adam and John. All his cousins were very special to Rod and are going to be missed by Byron, Tracey, Kelly, Scott, Sarah, Jesse and Carlie.
Rod will be especially missed by his wife and best friend Kathi. Highschool sweethearts and each other’s best supporters. Two beautiful sons Sam and Daniel were created from this love. Rod was thrilled to have two boys that he could talk about sports with and loved every minute of hanging out with them whether they were watching sports, playing them or listening to music which was another love of Rods.
Rod had a long career in Oakville at a Pharmaceutical Company that was called Searle when he first started, after several ownership changes ended as ANI. He made so many friends over the years there and most recently started making new friends at Summit Station Dairy & Creamery.
Special mention to longtime friends: Brian Smith, Greg Forster, Simon Frank, Jamie and Jennifer Kleven, Mark Greathead (and the rest of the football gang!)
Rod was always so loyal, always ready and willing to help someone else before he would help himself. He has continued with that and has already saved 3 lives by donating his organs. His gift of life to others is a true picture of his kind and helpful nature.
A Celebration of Life will be held at The Hamilton Airforce Association, 128 King Street East, Dundas, on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Hamilton SPCA in his memory.
My sincere condolences to Kathi and the entire family. I went to High school with Rod and always enjoyed his company, sense of humour and knowledge of sports. Just a really good guy. Rest easy Rod. Manfred Hoyer, Erin, ON
Rod was a great colleague and a wonderful person, even though I worked with him very briefly, he has definitely left a lasting impression. Condolences to the family and may he rest in peace
It’s with great sadness that I hear of the passing of Rodney. Fond memories of his kindness I remember. Thinking of you Kathy, Sam and Daniel. ♥️
I’m so sorry for your loss. I worked with Rod a short time and he was always so kind to me and always willing to lend a hand without hesitation. He will be missed greatly.
So sorry to hear about your loss . My heart breaks for you all
It was with sadness I heard about Rod’s passing.
My sincere condolences to Rod s Family.
I worked for several years with Rod .
Kathi, so sorry to hear of Rodney’s passing. We all had so many fun years on Hope Street.
Sorry I am unable to attend his celebration of life, but know there will be many there to show how much he was loved.
Lisa collins (previously Hils)
My condolences Kathi, Sam and Daniel.
I was gutted when i heard the news. Rod and i had
a lot of laughs when we played touch f-ball together, and i will
cherish everyone of them. He will be missed by all of us.
RIP BUDDY
It was an absolute honour to have worked with Rod as part of the Pharmaceutical Team through various ownership changes at the Oakville Facility.
Rod’s honesty, forthright manner and talent made him an integral part of the operation leading to our success over the years.
May his memory be a blessing to all those he loved.
I was saddened to hear of Rod’s passing. We worked together for many years. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family as you celebrate Rod’s exemplary life.
I worked with Rod for a number of years. I have good memories of him, especially throwing the football around on lunch breaks.
My condolences to the family.
My deepest condolences to Kathi, and both the families.
I was shocked with sadness when I got the news of Rods passing.
I had just met up with Rod, and some of the boys a few months ago. Hadn’t seen him for years. It was great catching up talking about old times and all the great memories we had growing up in Dundas.
RIP Rodney
My sincere condolences Kathi,Sam and Daniel. No words can describe the loss….Rod and I enjoyed reminiscing over lunch and he always talked about you Kathi the boys and his father. Rod love you brother ….
Condolences to the Dean and Gardiner families.Rod and I shared an interest in sports and family; years later incidental meetings on the sidelines or in the courtside bleachers were always vibrant, and reflected a strong sense of mutual respect. Rod will be missed by many who had the pleasure to know him.
Condolences go out to the family and friends who have been affected by the loss of Rod. To say the least I was shocked and saddened by his passing.
I knew him from coming to my shop once a month or so. It was always a pleasure to see him. Positive, friendly and you knew he was all in to his family.
RIP Rod
Our deepest condolences Kathi, Sam, Daniel and both families.
We had just met up with Rod a few weeks ago. Talk about our families, school days and sports.
RIP Rodney
I am deeply saddened to hear about Rodney’s passing. He was often at family gatherings at uncle Ron and aunt Denise’s house. I remember the fun and laughter and the many football games that were viewed during social gatherings. My heart goes out to Kathi and the boys, Gordy and family.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers
To Kathi and the family: This was a terrible shock when we heard the news. We are so sorry for your loss, he was far too young. Our thoughts are with you all.
Heather and Mike.
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Rod’s death. I worked with him at 400 Iroquois Shore Road for quite a few years. He was a hard worker and a lovely person. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Rod was one of the greats. I will miss bumping into him around the beautiful valley town.
My heart aches for Kathi, Sam, Dan and the rest of the family.
I grew up and went to school with Rodney. I remember he was always smiling that big grin lol
Such a nice guy. He will be missed.
Sending hugs out to everyone.
RIP Rodney 💛
Too early for you to leave here. Always a great pleasure to run into you. We always shared a good laugh. You helped out others at the end which is an incredible gift from you and your family. Rest in peace my friend.